January 21, 2005 Techtronic Industries (TTI) and its newly acquired Milwaukee brand has shown a new V28 lithium ion battery technology that will offer some useful functionality and additional oomph to cordless power tools. The new 28 volt battery delivers increased power and up to twice the run time of traditional 18 volt models, yet the battery weighs less and the amount of power on offer enables new first-timetools such as a cordless band saw.

The V28 line of tools also includes a hammer-drill, circular saw, Sawzall reciprocating saw, impact wrench, work light and battery charger. The V28 line will be available at participating distributors nationwide in the second quarter of 2005.

The new technology also offers a number of other benefits over traditional 18 volt battery technologies used in cordless power tools. In optimising the Lithium ion battery platform (most popular for its use in cell phones and digital cameras) for “high current draw” applications, Milwaukee has been able to achieve twice the in-use time of the tools between recharges, a built-in “fuel gauge” showing how much run time is available and some clever recording technology within the tool.

V28 “smart batteries” internally record the first date of product usage, and detailed information about the usage patterns of the tool. This will enable warranty claims to be validated more accurately and will contribute valuable data to improve future tool/battery designs.

Two new V28 product offerings will be announced in the near future - a rotary hammer and job site radio.